The Unseen Burden: Why Parents Must Stop Relying Solely on Teachers, Written by Ogundipe Daniel

Teachers are often expected to be miracle workers, imparting knowledge, discipline, and values to their students. However, this expectation is unrealistic and unfair. Teachers are not surrogate parents, and their role is not to replace parental guidance.

The truth is, education is a partnership between teachers, parents, and students. When parents abdicate their responsibility, it creates an unfair burden on teachers. Teachers are expected to do it all, with limited pay and resources.

Parents must recognize that teachers are not responsible for raising their children. Teachers are responsible for providing instruction, guidance, and support in a specific subject area. Parents, on the other hand, are responsible for providing a stable and supportive home environment, ensuring their children’s physical and emotional well-being, and instilling values and morals.

The consequences of relying solely on teachers are clear. Students suffer from lack of support, and teachers burn out from shouldering the entire burden. Teachers are often blamed for the failures of the education system, when in reality, they are doing their best with the resources they have.

Furthermore, the lack of parental involvement can lead to behavioral problems, poor academic performance, and decreased motivation. When parents are not engaged in their children’s education, they miss out on opportunities to shape their children’s values, interests, and goals.

It’s time for parents to take ownership of their children’s education and work in partnership with teachers. By doing so, we can create a more collaborative and effective approach to education. One that values the contributions of both teachers and parents.

Parents can start by attending parent-teacher conferences, volunteering in the classroom, and communicating regularly with teachers. They can also support their children’s learning at home by providing a quiet and comfortable study space, monitoring homework completion, and encouraging reading and learning.

Teachers, on the other hand, can work to build stronger relationships with parents and communicate more effectively about student progress. They can also provide resources and support to help parents engage more deeply in their children’s education.

By working together, we can create a more supportive and effective education system. One that recognizes the importance of both teachers and parents in shaping the minds and futures of our children.